An Isomorphic Instrument

iso•mor•phic
Pronunciation: \i-s?-mor-fik\
Function: adjective
Definition: being of identical or similar form, shape, or structure

The harpejji is an isomorphic instrument. The word ‘isomorphic’ sounds complex, but it is this characteristic that makes the harpejji simple and easy to learn. On the harpejji, chords and scales of a particular type all have the same geometric shape, regardless of the starting (root) note. So take any chord or scale and shift it up, down, left or right to play chords or scales of a different root. By contrast, on a piano the pattern for a C major scale is very different from the pattern for a C# major scale. So, even though they are both major scales, different muscular motions must be learned and memorized for each. Multiply this by twelve keys, and you have a lot to learn on piano! The harpejji takes a lot less time to master, because once one chord or scale is learned, it can be directly applied to all twelve keys. Learn all your piano chords and scales in 1/12th the time!

To interact with the isomorphic marker system, try out the Virtual harpejji here.